"Now, we really need to get to your capital city, and as soon as possible," Villeneuve said and Remy translated. "How fast do you think we can arrange such a journey?"
The Viceroy did not immediately answer. Instead, he studied the two foreigners across the table, his gaze steady and unreadable.
After a moment he spoke.
Remy listened closely before turning back to Villeneuve.
"He says you misunderstand the situation."
Villeneuve frowned slightly.
"What does he mean?"
Remy listened again as the Viceroy continued speaking in a calm but firm tone.
Then he translated.
"The capital of the Qing Empire is not a place foreign envoys can simply travel to whenever they wish."
Several of the officials standing along the wall nodded quietly.
Remy continued translating.
"The Viceroy says any request to approach the imperial court must first be reported to Beijing."
Villeneuve folded his hands on the table.
"And how long would that take?"
Remy relayed the question.
